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SYMPTOM CHECKER
Prostaglandins are produced within the body's cells by the enzyme cyclooxygenase
(COX). There are two COX enzymes, COX-1 and COX-2. Both enzymes produce
prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. However, only COX-1
produces prostaglandins that support platelets and protect the stomach.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) block the COX enzymes and reduce
prostaglandins throughout the body. As a consequence, ongoing inflammation, pain,
and fever are reduced. Since the prostaglandins that protect the stomach and
support platelets and blood clotting also are reduced, NSAIDs can cause ulcers in
the stomach and promote bleeding.
aspirin
celecoxib (Celebrex)
diclofenac (Cambia, Cataflam, Voltaren-XR, Zipsor, Zorvolex)
diflunisal (Dolobid - discontinued brand)
etodolac (Lodine - discontinued brand)
ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
indomethacin (Indocin)
ketoprofen (Active-Ketoprofen [Orudis - discontinued brand])
ketorolac (Toradol - discontinued brand)
nabumetone (Relafen - discontinued brand)
naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprelan, Naprosyn)
oxaprozin (Daypro)
piroxicam (Feldene)
salsalate (Disalsate [Amigesic - discontinued brand])
sulindac (Clinoril - discontinued brand)
tolmetin (Tolectin - discontinued brand)
SLIDESHOW
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Exercises Slideshow: Joint-Friendly Fitness Routines
See Slideshow
nausea,
vomiting,
diarrhea,
constipation,
decreased appetite,
rash,
dizziness,
headache, and
drowsiness.
Other important side effects are:
WARNING: Some individuals are allergic to NSAIDs and may develop shortness of
breath when an NSAID is taken. People with asthma are at a higher risk for
experiencing serious allergic reaction to NSAIDs. Individuals with a serious
allergy to one NSAID are likely to experience a similar reaction to a different
NSAID.
Use of aspirin in children and teenagers with chickenpox or influenza has been
associated with the development of Reye's syndrome, a serious and sometimes fatal
liver disease. Therefore, aspirin and non-aspirin salicylates (for example,
salsalate [Amigesic]) should not be used in children and teenagers with suspected
or confirmed chickenpox or influenza.
NSAIDs increase the risk of potentially fatal, stomach and intestinal adverse
reactions (for example, bleeding, ulcers, and perforation of the stomach or
intestines). These events can occur at any time during treatment and without
warning symptoms. Elderly patients are at greater risk for these adverse events.
NSAIDs (except low dose aspirin) may increase the risk of potentially fatal heart
attacks, stroke, and related conditions. This risk may increase with duration of
use and in patients who have underlying risk factors for heart and blood vessel
disease. Therefore, NSAIDs should not be used for the treatment of pain resulting
from coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.
headaches,
arthritis,
ankylosing spondylitis,
sports injuries, and
menstrual cramps.
Ketorolac (Toradol) is only used for short-term treatment of moderately severe
acute pain that otherwise would be treated with narcotics.
Aspirin (also an NSAID) is used to inhibit the clotting of blood and prevent
strokes and heart attacks in individuals at high risk for strokes and heart
attacks.
QUESTION
Medically speaking, the term "myalgia" refers to what type of pain?
See Answer
Aspirin is a unique NSAID, not only because of its many uses, but because it is the
only NSAID that inhibits the clotting of blood for a prolonged period of time (4 to
7 days). This prolonged effect of aspirin makes it an ideal drug for preventing
blood clots that cause heart attacks and strokes.
Most NSAIDs inhibit the clotting of blood for only a few hours. Ketorolac (Toradol)
is a very potent NSAID and is used for moderately severe acute pain that usually
requires narcotics. Ketorolac causes ulcers more frequently than other NSAID.
Therefore, it is not used for more than five days. Although NSAIDs have a similar
mechanism of action, individuals who do not respond to one NSAID may respond to
another.
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NSAIDs also decrease the ability of the blood to clot and therefore increase
bleeding. When used with other drugs that also increase bleeding (for example,
warfarin [Coumadin]), there is an increased likelihood of serious bleeding or
complications of bleeding. Therefore, individuals who are taking drugs that reduce
the ability of blood to clot should avoid prolonged use of NSAIDs.
NSAIDs also may increase blood pressure in patients with hypertension (high blood
pressure) and therefore antagonize the action of drugs that are used to treat
hypertension.
Persons who have more than three alcoholic beverages per day may be at increased
risk of developing stomach ulcers when taking NSAIDs.
Picture of Gout
Picture of Gout
Condition characterized by abnormally elevated levels of uric acid in the blood,
recurring attacks of joint inflammation...
Headache
Headache
Headaches can be divided into two categories: primary headaches and secondary
headaches. Migraine headaches, tension headaches, and cluster headaches are
considered primary headaches. Secondary headaches are caused by disease. Headache
symptoms vary with the headache type. Over-the-counter pain relievers provide
short-term relief for most headaches.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis
Endometriosis implants are most commonly found on the ovaries, the Fallopian tubes,
outer surfaces of the uterus or intestines, and on the surface lining of the pelvic
cavity. They also can be found in the vagina, cervix, and bladder. Endometriosis
may not produce any symptoms, but when it does the most common symptom is pelvic
pain that worsens just prior to menstruation and improves at the end of the
menstrual period. Other symptoms of endometriosis include pain during sex, pain
with pelvic examinations, cramping or pain during bowel movements or urination, and
infertility. Treatment of endometriosis can be with medication or surgery.
Knee Injury
Knee Injury
Knee injuries, especially meniscus tears, are common in contact sports. Symptoms
and signs of a torn meniscus include knee pain, swelling, a popping sound, and
difficulty bending the leg. Treatment may involve resting, icing, compressing, and
elevating the knee, in addition to wearing a knee brace, taking anti-inflammatory
medications, and stretching the knee.
Stroke
Stroke
A stroke is an interruption of the blood supply to part of the brain caused by
either a blood clot (ischemic) or bleeding (hemorrhagic). Symptoms of a stroke may
include: weakness, numbness, double vision or vision loss, confusion, vertigo,
difficulty speaking or understanding speech. A physical exam, imaging tests,
neurological exam, and blood tests may be used to diagnose a stroke. Treatment may
include administration of clot-busting drugs, supportive care, and in some
instances, neurosurgery. The risk of stroke can be reduced by controlling high
blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and stopping smoking.
Toothache
Toothache
A toothache is pain on or around a tooth. It may have a variety of causes,
including a cavity, abscess, or even sinusitis. Toothache symptoms include pain,
headache, earache, bad taste in the mouth, and gum swelling. Dental X-rays and
other tests performed by a dentist are used to diagnose the cause of a toothache.
Toothache treatment depends on the underlying cause. Taking proper care of the
teeth and gums can help prevent toothache.
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis Syndrome
Piriformis syndrome may develop if the piriformis muscle spasms and compresses the
sciatic nerve. This causes buttock pain that radiates down the back of the leg
along the sciatic nerve. Symptoms include numbness, a pins-and-needles tingling
sensation, and low back pain. Treatment of piriformis syndrome depends upon the
syndrome's phase: acute, recovery, or maintenance.
Foot Pain
Foot Pain
Foot pain may be caused by injuries (sprains, strains, bruises, and fractures),
diseases (diabetes, Hansen disease, and gout), viruses, fungi, and bacteria
(plantar warts and athlete's foot), or even ingrown toenails. Pain and tenderness
may be accompanied by joint looseness, swelling, weakness, discoloration, and loss
of function. Minor foot pain can usually be treated with rest, ice, compression,
and elevation and OTC medications such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Severe pain
should be treated by a medical professional.
Internal Bleeding
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding occurs when an artery or vein is damaged and blood to escapes the
circulatory system and collects inside the body. Internal bleeding can be caused by
a variety of situations such as blunt trauma, deceleration trauma, medications,
fractures, and spontaneous bleeding. Treatment of internal bleeding depends on the
cause of the bleeding.
Bone Cancer
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in cells that make up the bones.
Primary bone cancer that arises in bone cells is different than metastatic bone
cancer, which is cancer that arises in another part of the body and then spreads to
the bones. Hereditary and environmental factors likely contribute to the risk of
bone cancer. Signs and symptoms of bone cancer may include pain, the presence of a
mass or lump, and bone fractures. There are different types of bone cancer
(osteosarcoma, chondrosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, pleomorphic sarcoma, fibrosarcoma).
Treatment for bone cancer may include surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy,
radiation, and/or a stem cell transplant. The prognosis for bone cancer depends on
the type of cancer and the extent of spread.
Knee Pain
Knee Pain
Acute injuries, medical conditions, and chronic use conditions are causes of knee
pain. Symptoms and signs that accompany knee pain include redness, swelling,
difficulty walking, and locking of the knee. To diagnose knee pain, a physician
will perform a physical exam and also may order X-rays, arthrocentesis, blood
tests, or a CT scan or MRI. Treatment of knee pain depends upon the cause of the
pain.
Dry Socket
Dry Socket
A dry socket is a potential complication that can occur when a blood clot in the
gums becomes dislodged after a tooth extraction. Dry socket signs and symptoms
include pain, mouth odor, and unpleasant taste in the mouth. A dentist may treat a
dry socket with analgesic dressing. Over-the-counter pain medications can also
relieve symptoms. A dry socket usually heals within 7 days. Avoiding smoking,
drinking with a straw, and vigorous rinsing and spitting may help prevent the
formation of dry socket.
Hamstring Injury
Hamstring Injury
Hamstring injuries may range from minor strains to major ruptures. A hamstring
injury causes spasm, tightness, and tenderness. More severe injuries may cause
swelling and bruising. While most hamstring injuries heal without surgery, a
complete rupture would require surgery.
Sore Throat
Sore Throat
Sore throat (throat pain) usually is described as pain or discomfort in the throat
area. A sore throat may be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections,
toxins, irritants, trauma, or injury to the throat area. Common symptoms of a sore
throat include a fever, cough, runny nose, hoarseness, earaches, sneezing, and body
aches. Home remedies for a sore throat include warm soothing liquids and throat
lozenges. OTC remedies for a sore throat include OTC pain relievers such as
ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Antibiotics may be necessary for some cases of sore
throat.
Migraine Headache
Migraine Headache
Migraine headache is a type of headache associated with a sensitivity to light,
smells, or sounds, eye pain, severe pounding on one side of the head, and sometimes
nausea and vomiting. The exact cause of migraine headaches is not known. Triggers
for migraine headaches include certain foods, stress, hormonal changes, strong
stimuli (loud noises), and oversleeping. Treatment guidelines for migraines include
medicine, pain management, diet changes, avoiding foods that trigger migraines,
staying hydrated, getting adequate sleep, and exercising regularly. Prevention of
migraine triggers include getting regular exercise, drinking water daily, reducing
stress, and avoiding trigger foods.
Mastoiditis
Mastoiditis
Mastoiditis in children and adults is inflammation and/or infection of the mastoid
bone, which is located behind the ear. The most common cause of mastoiditis is an
inner ear infection or otitis media. Acute mastoiditis lasts for a short period,
while chronic mastoiditis can last for months to years. Symptoms of acute
mastoiditis in children and adults include, pain and swelling behind the ear, pus
draining from the ear, and a low-grade fever. Complications of mastoiditis include
meningitis, abscess, dizziness, and conductive hearing loss. Mastoiditis requires
antibiotic treatment so it cannot be treated at home with natural products or home
remedies; however, home remedies may help reduce symptoms of pain, inflammation,
and fever. Some individuals will need surgery to cure their infection.
Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder Bursitis
Shoulder bursitis is inflammation of the shoulder bursa. Bursitis may be caused by
injury, infection, or a rheumatic condition. Symptoms include pain, swelling,
tenderness, and pain with movement of the shoulder joint. Treatment may involve ice
compresses, rest, and anti-inflammatory medications and depends on whether there is
an infection.
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that causes chronic inflammation of
the spine. The tendency to develop ankylosing spondylitis is genetically inherited.
Treatment incorporates medications, physical therapy, and exercise.
Knee Bursitis
Knee Bursitis
Bursitis of the knee results when any of the three fluid-filled sacs (bursae)
become inflamed due to injury or strain. Symptoms include pain, swelling, warmth,
tenderness, and redness. Treatment of knee bursitis depends on whether infection is
involved. If the knee bursa is not infected, knee bursitis may be treated with ice
compresses, rest, and anti-inflammatory and pain medications.
Bursitis
Bursitis
A bursa is a fluid-filled sac found in the joints that cushions them. Bursitis is
an inflammation of the bursae, most commonly caused by repetitive motion. Bursitis
can be caused by a bacterial infection and should be treated with antibiotics.
Doctors also recommend icing and resting the joint.
Bruises
Bruises
A bruise, or contusion, is caused when blood vessels are damaged or broken as the
result of a blow to the skin. The raised area of a bump or bruise results from
blood leaking from these injured blood vessels into the tissues as well as from the
body's response to the injury. Treatments include applying an ice pack and pressure
to the area by hand.
Dengue Fever
Dengue Fever
Dengue fever is contracted from the bite of a striped Aedes aegypti mosquito.
Symptoms and signs of dengue include headache, fever, exhaustion, severe joint and
muscle pain, rash, and swollen glands. Since dengue is caused by a virus, there is
no specific medicine to treat it. Treatment instead focuses on relieving the
symptoms.
Orthostatic Hypotension
Orthostatic Hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension symptoms include: LightheadednessWeaknessBlurred vision
Syncope or passing out Causes of orthostatic hypotension include: Dehydration,
Anemia, Medication Blood loss Low blood pressure Heat related illnesses Parkinson's
disease Diabetes Treatment of orthostatic hypotension depends on the underlying
cause.
Elbow Pain
Elbow Pain
Elbow pain is most often the result of tendinitis, which can affect the inner or
outer elbow. Treatment includes ice, rest, and medication for inflammation.
Inflammation, redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, and decreased range of motion
are other symptoms associated with elbow pain. Treatment for elbow pain depends
upon the nature of the patient's underlying disease or condition.
Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett's Esophagus
Barrett's esophagus occurs as a complication of chronic gastroesophageal reflux
disease (GERD), primarily in white males. GERD refers to the reflux of acidic fluid
from the stomach into the esophagus (the swallowing tube), and is classically
associated with heartburn. Learn the symptoms, causes, and treatments for Barrett's
esophagus.
Eye Allergy
Eye Allergy
Eye allergy (or allergic eye disease) are typically associated with hay fever and
atopic dermatitis. Medications and cosmetics may cause eye allergies. Allergic eye
conditions include allergic conjunctivitis, conjunctivitis with atopic dermatitis,
vernal keratoconjunctivitis, and giant papillary conjunctivitis. Dry eye, tear-duct
obstruction, and conjunctivitis due to infection are frequently confused with eye
allergies. Eye allergies may be treated with topical antihistamines, decongestants,
topical mast-cell stabilizers, topical anti-inflammatory drugs, systemic
medications, and allergy shots.
Pain Management
Pain Management
Pain management and treatment can be simple or complex, according to its cause.
There are two basic types of pain, nociceptive pain and neuropathic pain. Some
causes of neuropathic pain include: complex regional pain syndrome, interstitial
cystitis, and irritable bowel syndrome. There are a variety of methods to treat
chronic pain, which are dependant on the type of pain experienced.
Scleritis
Scleritis
Scleritis is inflammation of the white part of the eye. It may be caused by a
serious underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease. Symptoms include
redness, pain, tearing, sensitivity to light, and decreased visual acuity.
Treatment may include eyedrops as well as treatment for any underlying disease
process. Scleritis cannot be prevented.
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a disease that causes skin and joint inflammation. Symptoms
and signs include painful, stiff, and swollen joints, tendinitis, and organ
inflammation. Treatment involves anti-inflammatory medications and exercise.
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia rheumatica (PMR) is a disorder of the muscles and joints that causes
pain and stiffness in the arms, neck, shoulders, and buttocks. Treatment for
polymyalgia rheumatica aims to reduce inflammation with aspirin, ibuprofen, and low
doses of cortisone medications.
Still's Disease
Still's Disease
Still's disease (systemic-onset juvenile rheumatoid arthritis) is a disorder
characterized by inflammation with high fever spikes, fatigue, salmon-colored rash,
and/or arthritis. Though there have been several theories regarding the cause(s) of
Still's disease, the cause is not yet known. Many symptoms of Still's disease are
often treatable with anti-inflammatory drugs.
Cluster Headaches
Cluster Headaches
Cluster headaches are a type of headache that recurs over a period. Episodes can
last one to three times a day during this time, which may last from 2 weeks to 3
months. The three main types of treatments for cluster headaches are, 1) Abortive
medications that work to stop the process in the brain that causes migraines and
stops the symptoms too. 2) Preventive prescription medications, or 3) surgery which
involves blocking the trigeminal nerve.
Pseudogout
Pseudogout
Pseudogout, a form of arthritis, results when deposits of crystals collect in and
around the joints. Symptoms of pseudogout include pain, stiffness, warmth, and
joint swelling of the knees, ankles, hips, shoulders, and/or wrists. Treatment for
pseudogout aims to decrease inflammation through the use of nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs, ice, and rest.
Reactive Arthritis
Reactive Arthritis
Reactive arthritis is a chronic, systemic rheumatic disease characterized by three
conditions, including conjunctivitis, joint inflammation, and genital, urinary, or
gastrointestinal system inflammation. Inflammation leads to pain, swelling, warmth,
redness, and stiffness of the affected joints. Non-joint areas may experience
irritation and pain. Treatment for reactive arthritis depends on which area of the
body is affected. Joint inflammation is treated with anti-inflammatory medications.
Relapsing Polychondritis
Relapsing Polychondritis
Relapsing polychondritis is an uncommon, chronic disorder of the cartilage that is
characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammation of the cartilage of various
tissues of the body. Tissues containing cartilage that can become inflamed include
the ears, nose, joints, spine, and windpipe (trachea). Tissues that have a
biochemical makeup similar to that of cartilage such as the eyes, heart, and blood
vessels, can also be affected. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
is used as treatment for mild cases of the disease. Steroid-related medications
also are usually required.
Miscarriage
Miscarriage
Miscarriage is the medical term for the spontaneous loss of pregnancy from
conception to 20 weeks gestation. Risk factors for a woman having a miscarriage
include cigarette smoking, older maternal age, radiation exposure, previous
miscarriage, maternal weight, illicit drug use, use of NSAIDs, and trauma or
anatomical abnormalities to the uterus. There are five classified types of
miscarriage: 1) threatened abortion; 2) incomplete abortion; 3) complete abortion;
4) missed abortion; and (5 septic abortion. While there are no specific treatments
to stop a miscarriage, a woman's doctor may advise avoiding certain activities, bed
rest, etc. If a woman believes she has had a miscarriage, she needs to seek prompt
medical attention.
Paget's Disease
Paget's Disease
Paget's disease, also called Paget's disease of bone, is a chronic bone disorder
due to irregular breakdown and formation of bone tissue. Paget's disease symptoms
include bone pain, headaches and hearing loss, pressure on nerves, increased head
size, hip pain, and damage to cartilage of joints.
Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps (pain in the belly and pelvic area) are experienced by women as a
result of menses. Menstrual cramps are not the same as premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Menstrual cramps are common, and may be accompanied by headache, nausea, vomiting,
constipation, or diarrhea. Severity of menstrual cramp pain varies from woman to
woman. Treatment includes OTC or prescription pain relief medication.
SAPHO Syndrome
SAPHO Syndrome
SAPHO syndrome is a chronic disorder that involves the skin, bone, and joints.
SAPHO syndrome is an eponym for the combination of synovitis, acne, pustulosis,
hyperostosis, and osteitis. SAPHO syndrome is related to arthritic conditions such
as ankylosing spondylitis and reactive arthritis. Treatment is directed toward the
individual symptoms that are present, and includes medications such as nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and cortisone medications.
Chronic Pain
Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is pain (an unpleasant sense of discomfort) that persists or
progresses over a long period of time. In contrast to acute pain that arises
suddenly in response to a specific injury and is usually treatable, chronic pain
persists over time and is often resistant to medical treatments.
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter Disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease, a painful inflammation just below the knee but above the
shin, typically affects adolescent boys. Symptoms include localized pain,
inflammation, swelling, and calcification. Osgood-Schlatter disease typically goes
away over time, however, symptoms can be helped with anti-inflammatory and pain-
relieving medications, ice, and rest.
Shin Splints
Shin Splints
Shin splints result from inflammation from injury to the tendon and adjacent
tissues in the front of the outer leg. Shin splints commonly occur in runners or
aggressive walkers, causing pain and discomfort. An increase in workout intensity,
weak ankles and pronation may be to blame for shin splints. Stretching,
strengthening, and icing the affected area are effective treatments for shin
splints. Rest and anti-inflammatory medications are also advised.
First Aid
First Aid
First aid is providing medical assistance to someone a sick or injured person. The
type of first aid depends on their condition. Preparedness is key to first aid,
like having basic medical emergency kits in your home, car, boat, or RV. Many minor
injuries may require first aid, including cuts, puncture wounds, sprains, strains,
and nosebleeds. Examples of more critical first aid emergencies include heart
attacks, strokes, seizures, and heatstroke.
Pain Management: Musculoskeletal Pain
Pain Management: Musculoskeletal Pain
Natural menopause is the permanent ending of menstruation that is not brought on by
any type of medical treatment. For women undergoing natural menopause, the process
is described in three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. However,
not all women undergo natural menopause. Some women experience induced menopause as
a result of surgery or medical treatments, such as chemotherapy and pelvic
radiation therapy.
Impingement Syndrome
Impingement Syndrome
Impingement syndrome is a condition that affects the shoulder. Symptoms include
pain with overhead use of the arm, difficulty reaching up behind the back, and weak
shoulder muscles. Treatment involves taking NSAIDs for approximately eight weeks,
daily stretching in a warm shower, and avoiding repetitive activities with the
injured arm.
Headaches in Children
Headaches in Children
Kids get headaches and migraines too. Many adults with headaches started having
them as kids, in fact, 20% of adult headache sufferers say their headaches started
before age 10, and 50% report their headaches started before age 20.
What Is COPD?
Learn About This Progressive Lung Disease
Breast Cancer
A Visual Guide to Breast Cancer
Understanding Cancer
Metastasis, Stages of Cancer, and More
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